An Amber Alert was issued for Thomas after her parents reported her missing.

Cummins was Thomas’ 50-year-old high school teacher at Culleoka Unit School. He was officially fired from his position when the alert was released.

Students reported the two had been seen kissing in school before the disappearance.

“I am overjoyed that she has been found safely and will return safely to Maury County.,” Maury County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Marczak said.

He praised those from far and wide who have continued to keep the search for Thomas.

“I think it s extremely powerful that we have been able to continue to say vigilant and keep the hope alive,” Marczak said. “There are so manny to have contributed to that. We are lucky and we are grateful that she will be retuning home looking forward to having her back in the county.”

The TBI will host a press conference on the arrest at 4 p.m. Eastern at its Nashville office.